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Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu

Raja Desingu of Gingee

A Rajput prince from Bundelkhand named Tej Singh came to Gingee in Tamil Nadu and became a local hero named Raja Desingu. His story is still told in local ballads and street performances like Therukoothu and Poi-Kal-Kuthirai, and even the Burra-Katha tradition of Andhra. It was even made into a Tamil biopic in the 1960s, featuring MGR. Who was Raja Desingu?
Chithirai Festival

The Celestial Wedding That United a Town | The Chithirai Festival, Madurai

Every year in April-May, tens of thousands of people visit Madurai to take part in the Chithirai festival. Huge, colourful chariots are drawn through the streets of Madurai in a re-enactment of the celestial wedding of Lord Sundareshwarar and Goddess Meenakshi. The festivities are centred around two ancient temples, the Kallazhagar temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the Meenakshi temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi. But did you know that the festival in its current form was the creation of a king Thirumalai Nayak, who ruled over Madurai in the 17th century? What is the story behind this grand festival that connects two prominent temples and brings a whole town together? 
The Great Trigonometrical Survey

William Lambton: The Soldier Who Mapped India

The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India was the largest measurement of the Earth’s surface ever attempted. Apart from mapping the country, the project measured the height of Mount Everest, the tallest peak in the world, and even corroborated Newton’s theory about the shape of the Earth. This is the story of the man who led this massive project – Col. William Lambton.
Siri wall

The ‘Mad King’ and the Mongols

The Mongols were infamous for their remarkable conquests that spanned a vast expanse of the world. Yet, they were never able to conquer Delhi, despite it being within striking distance. Why? The answer is most likely – Alauddin Khilji. The Mongols’ repeated attempts to capture Delhi were thwarted by Khilji’s resolute defence.

The Women Behind the Mughal Throne: The Story of Jahanara, Roshanara and Gauhar Ara

The women of the Mughal Empire were not mere ornaments in the imperial court. They were educated, artistic and commercially and politically savvy, and significantly influenced government decisions even during Aurangzeb’s dictatorial reign. Read on for the remarkable story of Aurangzeb’s sisters.

Begum Samru: The Story of India’s Only Christian Queen

Begum Samru was the first (and last) Catholic queen in India. Despite being an orphan and later a widow, she defied all odds as she became the ruler of Sardhana in Uttar Pradesh during a tumultuous time in the country. With her political acumen and military prowess, she emerged victorious in several significant battles. Read on to explore her remarkable story.